Lamar University students will begin their spring semester in-person, Jan. 18 – the fifth semester impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic.

In a Friday letter issued to the Lamar community, President Jaime Taylor said the university will remain vigilant in monitoring the virus and variants, including the omicron variant, which is seeing a surge across the United States.

“It’s important to emphasize we will start the spring 2022 semester on time and campus will continue with normal operations,” Taylor said in the letter.

Taylor stressed mitigation efforts such as social distancing, hand washing and wearing a mask or facial covering while indoors, though they will not be required.

The Student Health Center also will provide free COVID testing to all LU and Lamar Institute of Technology students, a continuation of last semester’s protocols.

In addition, the health center offers free Moderna and Pfizer vaccinations, including booster shots, to all LU and LIT students, faculty and staff.

“Get vaccinated and boosted to increase protection from the virus and to prevent serious illness,” Taylor said.

Self-assessments for COVID symptoms are also encouraged, as well as staying home when exhibiting symptoms, Taylor said.

“With all of us working together and doing our part, we can ensure the safety of our campus community and look ahead to a happy and healthy new year,” Taylor said.

To schedule a vaccination appointment, visit the immunizations tab on the Student Health Center’s page of the Lamar website, lamar.edu or call 409-880-8466 for more information.

Visit lamar.edu/strongertogether to view all of the university’s COVID-19 links including the COVID-19 dashboard which tracks all known cases on campus.

Written by Olivia Malick